Summer Law Clerk

Job Overview

Summer Law Clerk role at Immigrant Defenders Law Center (Imm Def) in San Diego. Term 10 weeks May 26 – July 31 2026. 2L and 3L students. Stipend limited; applicants must secure external funding. Imm Def may offset up to $7,500 combined from all sources.

• Client intakes, interviews, and legal screenings.
• Draft and file declarations, applications to immigration court, USCIS, and state courts.
• Research and write legal issues related to immigration, criminal, and child welfare law.
• Supervised appearances in immigration court, and, if available, family or probate court.

• Currently enrolled in a U.S. law school, working toward a J.D. or L.L.M. degree.
• Work experience or coursework in immigration law or related legal experience helpful but not required.
• Experience in non-profit or public interest, litigation, immigration, criminal, or child custody law helpful.
• Strong case management, legal research, and legal writing skills.
• Commitment to working in a diverse professional environment, passion for social justice for immigrants.
• DACA recipients encouraged to apply.

• Cover letter and résumé required.
• Writing sample and/or references by request.

Imm Def’s stipend ability limited due to federal funding uncertainty. Applicants must secure outside funding. If several clerks secure independent funding, Imm Def may reallocate funds to ensure all clerks receive at least a combined $7,500 from all sources.